2004 Kia Sorento EX from North America

Summary:

A dream vehicle - comparable to ANY SUV it's size (even those that cost twice as much)

Faults:

Absolutely nothing.

General Comments:

You get everything with this vehicle - safety, comfort, luxury, and (perhaps most importantly) a lower price than comparable SUVs.

Smooth driving at any speed.

I get the estimated mpg.

Like previous comments indicated, I wish the local dealers/salesmen were more knowledgeable about their vehicles. I've asked about something I've seen on the Internet or even on TV and they seemed clueless about it.

When the back seats are folded flat, there's room enough to camp back there!! :)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th August, 2004

2004 Kia Sorento CRDi XS 2.5 turbo diesel from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Excellent quality, well equipped, good value 4x4

Faults:

Tiny hole in heater hose meant coolant loss after 200 miles. Dealer repaired quickly under warranty. (PDI???).

General Comments:

The car is only just beginning to open up and performance is obviously poor compared to my previous 3.2litre petrol Frontera, however mid-range pick up is good, and it is an excellent tow car (towing two tons of car on trailer, and 1.5 tonnes boat)

The new five speed auto is superb; lazy and comfy on longer runs, with drive-ability (sport mode) for back lanes.

Fuel economy is disappointing at around 25mpg to 28mpg on runs (not the 34mpg advertised - hopefully it will improve with more miles covered).

A couple of other niggles, if it has self leveling suspension (seems to have) then why a headlamp level adjuster; also why no instrument lamp dimmer - it needs one; and why does the UK spec not have the trip computer as apparently fitted in Canada?

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd July, 2004

2004 Kia Sorento LX 3.5L gasoline from North America

Summary:

Awesome well built, well priced SUV

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong to date, Vehicle is flawless.

General Comments:

After many reviews I decided on this vehicle due to its affordability, good looks and safety features.

It handles well is somewhat stiff due to the solid frame, but expected in a truck based platform. The interior is great and well thought out. Overall I am pleased with myself on this purchase.

I am unsure of the support the dealer will provide given I will be at their door every 8000 kilometers for the free oil and filter change. I am hoping for the best in this area.

I suspect that my only concern would be petrol consumption. Given that I was seated in a Hyundai Elantra that had very good gas mileage this may be a bit of a shock.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st July, 2004

2004 Kia Sorento XS 2.5 diesel from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Superb value, excellent specification

Faults:

None so far, long may this continue!

General Comments:

This car is hugely under rated and the recent price increase perhaps signifies that people are slowly beginning to notice it.

Very comfortable with the full leather, heated seats.

Excellent storage, with little storage bins everywhere as well as the HUGE boot which can comfortably take a dog, luggage and a wheelchair. I know as I have done this!

Superb value for money and you get more car for your money than any other 4x4. I looked at, and test drove, six different 4x4s before coming back to the Sorento which was class leading in so many different ways.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th March, 2004

1st Oct 2004, 11:30

Thanks for the... 'Diesel auto', comment. We wanted the diesel, but in an 'AUTOMATIC'. Your comment has now confirmed that thank you.

2004 Kia Sorento XE 2.5 CRDi from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A very good solid 4 x 4 performer

Faults:

Nothing!

General Comments:

It is exceptional value for money.

It is performing very well solo and towing (caravan and boat).

It has so far met all our expectations from all the previous reviews we read before actually purchasing it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th March, 2004

28th Jun 2004, 02:56

I notice you previously owned a 'Trooper. I currently have a Trooper (98, Citation, Petrol Auto 3.2) & am considering a switch to Sorento 2.5 XS CRDi. Any comparisons you can offer (apart from expected better economy! - what do you average?). Excellent spec, but thought the boot area seemed a tad shorter & headroom in front also less (I'm 6') (due to sunroof?) - thanks!

11th Oct 2004, 06:00

Re the previous comment. I reckon boot is big enough. But my most important input is about head room is: Don't worry, I'm 6'2 and I fit just fine. There really is no need to worry. Only if I put my seat on "high" (pretty cool gadget those electric seats!:) ) that my hair brush against the top.

BUY THIS CAR, I'm sure you won't regret it!